Each day a different image or photograph is featured, with an
accompanying caption, which deals with various topics in Earth Science.

Godzilla Ice Needle

The photo above shows a Godzilla shaped feature (about 2 in or 5 cm in height) that resulted from a process known as frost heave. On clear, cold nights, small rocks and stones that quickly lose their surface heat cause water to be drawn up out of the ground via capillary action. When temperatures are sufficiently cold, the water immediately freezes as it comes out of the ground, forming ice needles. Stones at the surface or just below it are pushed upward and askew by the protruding ice needles.